Minnesota program trains women for construction projects

A program at Summit Academy OIC is training women to work construction projects like the St. Croix Crossing bridge and the Central Corridor Light Rail, according to a report from KAAL-TV.

Women Wear Hard Hats Too (WWHH2), a 20-week program dedicated to training Minnesota women in construction, focuses on teaching women more than just trade skills. WWHH2 features an industry network, advisory council, tradeswoman mentorship program and job placement support. It also uses “brown bag sessions” to teach women how to physically prepare for trade work, balance family and work and spot sexual harassment.

Many of the projects that do develop in Minnesota are required to hire a percentage of minorities, which includes women. Some projects are required to meet a specific percent participation goal for disadvantage business enterprises, or minority- and woman-owned businesses.

The increase in demand and the state’s affirmative action could give trained women a boost in construction.

Tuition is $5,400, but Summit Academy said grants will cover most costs.

Minnesota program trains women for construction projects

A program at Summit Academy OIC is training women to work construction projects like the St. Croix Crossing bridge and the Central Corridor Light Rail, according to a report from KAAL-TV.

Women Wear Hard Hats Too (WWHH2), a 20-week program dedicated to training Minnesota women in construction, focuses on teaching women more than just trade skills. WWHH2 features an industry network, advisory council, tradeswoman mentorship program and job placement support. It also uses “brown bag sessions” to teach women how to physically prepare for trade work, balance family and work and spot sexual harassment.

Many of the projects that do develop in Minnesota are required to hire a percentage of minorities, which includes women. Some projects are required to meet a specific percent participation goal for disadvantage business enterprises, or minority- and woman-owned businesses.

The increase in demand and the state’s affirmative action could give trained women a boost in construction.

Tuition is $5,400, but Summit Academy said grants will cover most costs.